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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 23912, member: 2262"] JANJANBUREH, Gambia - The eighth annual Janjanbureh Kankurang and Masquerade Festival drew 5,000 visitors to celebrate Gambian cultural heritage from January 24-26, 2025. The three-day event featured traditional kankurang masquerades and performances from various regions. Residents welcomed tourists and dignitaries, including regional governors, ministers, and officials from partner organizations. Central River Region Governor Ousman Bah called the festival "a colorful display of our rich culture." He emphasized how the kankurang tradition symbolizes protection, strength, and unity within the community. Youth and Sports Minister Bakary Y Badjie praised the festival's role in preserving cultural identity. "Culture plays a key role in every country's development," Badjie said. "It reminds us of our past and helps mold young people to understand their heritage." The government has launched a World Bank-supported project to restore cultural centers and heritage sites across the country. This initiative aims to strengthen traditional practices like the Kankurang ritual, which UNESCO recognized in 2008. Siaka Fadera, Deputy Director of the National Centre for Arts and Culture, highlighted the festival's success since its 2018 inception. "The cultural practice of the Kankurang remains viable and alive thanks to this annual celebration," Fadera said. International Trade Centre representative Yusupha Keita described the festival as a celebration of diversity and unity. The event received support from multiple partners, including ITC, Africel, GTBoard, and the National Centre for Arts and Culture. Local authorities have already scheduled next year's festival for January 23-25, 2026. The event's continued growth reflects its importance in preserving Gambian cultural traditions for future generations. Festival organizers thanked the numerous volunteers, sponsors, and community members who contributed to the event's success. Their combined efforts helped showcase the richness of Gambian cultural heritage through traditional performances and ceremonies. [/QUOTE]

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